Who Am I?
Hello there! I'm Monique, and I'm currently
studying Visual Communication Design at San Francisco State University
(SFSU). My journey in the field of design began a few years ago when I
discovered a great interest in visual storytelling and communication. Ever
since, I've been exploring different areas of design, from branding to UI/UX
design. Lately, I've been learning about VR (Virtual Reality), and how to
build environments using Unity.
When I'm not immersed in the world of design, you'll often find me enjoying
the sun on the beach (Ocean Beach or Crissy Field) or strolling along The
Embarcadero with friends. The beach is my sanctuary, offering a great
escape. I'm also a cat lover and a self-proclaimed coffee aficionado. Cats hold a
special place in my heart. As for coffee, it's my daily dose of inspiration
and comfort.
Inspirations
Robert L. Peters (1954-2023) was a Canadian graphic designer and educator. He co-founded the design studio Circle Design Incorporated and received numerous awards for his design work, including designing Canadian postage stamps. Peters taught creative communications and graphic design at various institutions and served in leadership roles in design organizations. He was involved in promoting ethical design practices and international design advancement. Peters also contributed to humanitarian efforts and was an ambassador for the International Indigenous Design Network. He authored books on design and was a regular contributor to design publications.
I am inspired by the people around me and the places I've visited. I've
crossed paths with several individuals whom I greatly admire, and I've
learned something from each of them. In unique ways, they've taught me about
myself, about design, about professionalism, and about the beauty of
individuality. I am always seeking new knowledge, whether it's from an
online workshop about a topic I may never explore again. But I believe in
trying everything at least once. Learning about Design has opened new doors
for me.
My influences
My influences are, definitely, my siblings who are the smartest and most
creative people I know. They have had a significant impact on my career
decisions. It's no surprise that they've chosen the same path as I have and
they are very successful.
Hopes in Life
During this summer, I will be seeking a job as a UX/UI Designer in the Bay
Area, and I'm hopeful for a positive outcome. For my initial experience, I
prefer an in-person role, so I can truly experience the "work environment,"
and learn more about design from my future colleagues. My ultimate goal
(maybe in 5 years?) is to have a flexible work schedule that allows me to
visit my family more frequently. Living abroad is challenging, and being
distant from family makes it even harder.
Images That Best Represents Me
Words That Describes Me
Project Proposals
Idea 1: Topic: AR Exploration of SF Historic
Landmarks
Problem:
Lack of interactive learning tools for understanding city
history
Purpose: To design an augmented reality (AR)-based app paired with a tour guide map
that enhances the exploration of San Francisco's historical landmarks by
overlaying interactive graphics and fun facts, thereby making the tour
experience more engaging and educational for users.
Idea 2: Topic: Designing Children's Books for Visually
Impaired
Problem: Lack of children's books designed for visually impaired
readers.
Purpose: To design a multi-sensory, engaging, and accessible children's book
that employs tactile graphics, Braille, high-contrast colors, interactive
elements, and audio descriptions to ensure a comprehensive and enjoyable
reading experience for visually impaired children.
Design Collaboration: Felton Institute
Topic:
Tech Training for Older Adults
Problem:
The growing digital divide isolating older adults due to their limited tech
skills, especially during the pandemic
Purpose:
To design an accessible, user-friendly platform for tech training tailored
specifically for older adults, with a special focus on mastering tools like
Zoom for social connection and access to essential services.
I enjoyed reading your profile and I think it's great that your siblings have a strong positive influence for you.
ReplyDeleteHey Monique! I like how you find inspiration from your environment and how you're so open to try new things and explore. Best of luck on your UX/UI journey!
ReplyDeleteHey Monique! I think it's great that you are exploring so many areas in design. Sometimes I feel there are endless avenues we can explore. Since you're checking out VR maybe look into UI/UX design for apple vision and other product like it. Also love your photos. Good luck with your project!
ReplyDeleteHey Monique, I enjoyed reading your journal and I also find comfort in a nice cup of coffee! I know how challenging it can be living abroad but it seems like you're definitely making the most out of living in SF, Ocean Beach and the Embarcadero are also some of my favorites places to visit. You should visit Crissy Field Beach sometime if you haven't already, it's my all time favorite beach spot in the city :)
ReplyDeleteHi Monique, I align with your 505 proposal. I have personal experiences with this and would be happy to share/ help in anyway I can. Bridging the gap, and creating an educational platform is a great idea. I look forward to seeing what you do.
ReplyDeleteHey Monique, nice seeing you in class again! I think I agree with you in the sense of working in an office environment for the first few years of your career. I truly feel that working in a space with other creatives only enhances your work flow. Although it is convenient working from home, it is nice having creative inputs right next to you. I am looking forward to this class with you!
ReplyDeleteHey Monique, super impressive that you've already got your three topics picked out! Looking forward to seeing which one you go with!
ReplyDeleteHi Monique. I think visual storytelling is a huge part of what we do as designers. It's great to see you're creating an emphasis on it in your work.
ReplyDeleteHey Monique! Your blog came out really nice, very organized and prepared.Virtual Reality is really cool and so up and coming what a good field to get interested in!
ReplyDeleteHey Monique! I’m looking forward to working together in our group. I recently got an espresso machine and am trying to become a coffee aficionado like yourself, but it’s more difficult and complex than I had realized!
ReplyDeleteI like your proposals, especially the AR exploration of historical landmarks in San Francisco. I am really interested in VR and AR, and I think it’s the perfect medium for exploring our world from the comfort of home.
WELCOME Monique to DES 505 Summer Session! Looking forward to working with you! Thank You for posting your three(3) preliminary 505 Project Proposals. You have identified some great topics that you should find ample resources, references, and experts here at SF State, and within the City. DES Professors Joshua McVeigh-Schultz, and Hsiao-Yun Chu could be very resourceful in the AR SF Historic Sights. I just attended the AIA'23 conference in SF, and there were many architectural/built environment tours that were organized. I know of at least 1-2 persons who were directing theses tour. that could assist you. Children's Books for the Visually-impaired is also a GREAT topic. Check out "the Lighthouse in SF" https://lighthouse-sf.org/; SF State Paul Longmore Center on Disability https://longmoreinstitute.sfsu.edu/#:~:text=At%20the%20Longmore%20Institute%2C%20our,and%20builds%20a%20broader%20community; Dr. Sandra Rosen https://gcoe.sfsu.edu/sandra-rosen
ReplyDelete